Studies on Edema Pathema in Hequ Horse in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau

Nano Copper Supplementation Increases Superoxide Dismutase and Catalase Gene Expression Profiles and Concentration of Antioxidants and Immune Variables in Sahiwal Heifers

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of inorganic and nano copper (nanoCu) supplementation on superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) gene expression, antioxidant status, and immune response in growing Sahiwal heifers. Twenty-four Sahiwal heifers were allocated at random into four groups of six heifers in each groups and fed for 120 days. Feeding regimen was similar in all the groups except that treatment groups were supplemented with 0.0 mg Cu, 10.0 mg inorganic copper (inCu), and 5.0 and 10.0 mg of nanoCu per kg dry matter (DM) in four respective groups. Feed intake and growth performance were similar in growing Sahiwal heifers fed on basal diet with or without supplemental Cu. Antioxidative variables like SOD, CAT, ceruloplasmin (Cp), total antioxidant status (TAS), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) were found higher in Cu-supplemented groups than control. Variables like malondialdehyde (MDA) and lipid peroxidation (LPO) were found lower in treatment groups than control. Total immunoglobulins (total Ig) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) were higher in treatment groups than control, although interleukin-6 (IL-6) was similar in all groups. There were upregulation of mRNA expression of SOD and CAT genes in experimental animals fed on Cu-supplemented diet while mRNA expression of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) genes was not altered by dietary treatment. The results suggest that the level of 5-ppm nanoCu can be selected for feeding in growing cattle as it exerts similar effects as showed by 10-ppm inorganic Cu.

Molybdenum fertilizer improved antioxidant capacity of Chinese Merino sheep under compound contamination

To investigate the response of different levels of molybdenum (Mo) fertilizer to Chinese Merino sheep (Junken Type) grazing on natural heavy metal-contaminated meadows, this study was carried out in the Bayanbulak Grassland lying in the northwest of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China. A total of 24-hm2 polluted meadows were fenced and were randomly divided into four groups (3 replication/group and 2 hm2/replication) applied 0-kg Mo, 1-kg Mo, 2-kg Mo, and 3-kg Mo (ammonium molybdate tetrahydrate) per hectare for the CON group, group I, group II, and group III, respectively. Seventy-two healthy 1-year-old Chinese Merino sheep (45.56 ± 2.35 kg) were randomly assigned to the tested pastures for 90 days. Compared with the CON group, the Mo content from fertilized groups and the Se content from group II and group III in serums and livers were significantly increased (P < 0.05), and the Cu content from fertilized groups in serums and livers was significantly decreased (P < 0.05). The levels of blood Hb and RBC, and the activities of serum SOD, CAT, GSH-Px, and Cp in group III, were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than those in the CON group, group I, and group II. Serum MDA content in group III was significantly lower (P < 0.05) than that in the other three groups. In summary, Mo fertilization improved the antioxidant capacity of grazing sheep and also reduced the toxic damage to Chinese Merino sheep grazing on natural grasslands contaminated by heavy metals, but Mo poisoning caused by excessive fertilization should be prevented.

Effects of Nano-Cu2O on the Productivity in the Cu-Stripped Chinese Merino Sheep

This research is to study the effects of nano-Cu₂O on blood parameters, growth performance, and wool yield in the Cu-stripped ranches, and provide reference for further study on prevention and treatment in Cu-deficient Chinese Merino sheep. We selected twenty Chinese Merino sheep from Cu-deficient and normal ranch, respectively. The results have shown that the Cu content in the soils, forages, blood, and wool from Cu-deficient ranches was significantly lower than those from normal ranches (P < 0.01). There were no significant differences in the contents of other elements. Treatment experiments of nano-Cu₂O were carried out for 50 days. We found that the Cu content in the blood was increased continuously in the sheep after adding nano-Cu₂O, and reached the highest level at 40 days. The levels of Hb, RBC, PCV, MCV, and MCH in the nano-Cu₂O-fed animals were remarkably higher than those in the control animals (P < 0.01). The daily gain and wool yield in the nano-Cu₂O-fed animals were also significantly higher than those in the control sheep (P < 0.01). Therefore, adding nano-Cu₂O not only remarkably increases the Cu content in the blood, but also greatly improves the daily gain and wool yield in Cu-deficient animals.

Effect of Foliage Dressing in Nano-Potassium Molybdate on Daily Gain and Antioxidant Function in Grazing the Chinese Merino Sheep

The study was implemented for exploring influences of nano-K₂MoO₄ on the daily gain and antioxidant function of Chinese merino sheep in the native pasture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Northwest of China. Eighty of the sheep, weight of (45.56 ± 2.35) kg, were randomly distributed to the tested areas for 90 days, 20 sheep/group. The findings showed that the contents of Mo and N in the forage of applying nano-K₂MoO₄ were extremely higher than those in the control pastures (P <0.01). The daily gain in the fertilized groups were remarkably lower than that in the control group (P <0.01). The harvest of forage in the fertilized pastures were significantly higher than those in control (P <0.01). The contents of Mo in blood and liver in grazing the Chinese merino sheep were extremely higher than those from the control group (P <0.01). The contents of Cu in blood and liver in grazing the Chinese merino sheep were extremely lower than those in the unfertilized pastures (P <0.01). The levels of hemoglobin (Hb), blood platelet (PLT), and erythrocyte count (RBC) in animals from the fertilized pastures were extremely lower than those in the control pastures (P < 0.01). The activities of SOD, GSH-Px, and CAT in serum were significantly lower than those in group C. The serum MDA levels were significantly higher than those in the control group (P < 0.01). In conclusion, the application of nano-K₂MoO₄ in pastures can greatly improve the yield of forage, but strikingly decreased the daily gain and antioxidant function in grazing the Chinese merino sheep.

Effects of the Seleno-Chitosan on Daily Gain, Wool Yield, and Blood Parameter in the Chinese Merino Sheep

To study the effects of the seleno-chitosan on daily gain, wool yield, and blood parameters in the Chinese merino sheep in the selenium (Se)-deficient pastures. The samples of soils, forages, and tissues had been collected in the Southern Xinjiang of Northwest China. Our findings indicated that the Se contents in soils and forages from affected pastures were remarkably lower than those unaffected by the pastures (P < 0.01). The Se contents in the blood and the wool from affected Chinese merino sheep were extremely lower than those from healthy sheep. Meanwhile, the values of Hb, PCV, and PLT in affected sheep were significantly decreased (P < 0.01). The yield of wool and the growth rate in affected sheep were also remarkably reduced (P < 0.01). The affected Chinese merino sheep were orally treated by seleno-chitosan for 150 days; the Se contents in blood were remarkably increased and reached the healthy range on day 5. The blood parameters soon recovered to a healthy range on day 10. The growth rate of sheep in the treated group was remarkably higher than that in the control animals. The yield of the wool was also significantly increased in the treated group. Consequently, the Se-deprived environment caused a threat to daily gain, wool yield, and blood parameters in the Chinese merino sheep. The seleno-chitosan could not only markedly increase the Se contents blood contents, but also significantly increase the production performance (daily gain and wool yield), and release the symptoms of anemia in the Se-deprived animal.

Effect of Nano-potassium Molybdate on the Copper Metabolism in Grazing the Pishan Red Sheep

The aims of this study were to investigate the impact of different levels of nano-potassium molybdate (nano-K₂MoO₄) fertilization on the copper (Cu) metabolism in grazing the Pishan red sheep in the natural pasture. The fertilization and grazing experiments were conducted on the Pishan farm in Southern Xinjiang, China. The natural pastures of 16 hm² were randomly divided into four groups (4 hm²/group), consisting of group C (no fertilized), group I, group II, and group III. The fertilizing amount of Mo from nano-K₂MoO₄ was 0, 7, 8, and 9 kg/hm² for group C, group I, group II, and group III, respectively. The 40 Pishan red sheep were randomly distributed to the tested pastures for 90 days, and the 10 sheep/group. The results showed that the contents of Mo and N in forage from the fertilized pastures were extremely increased (P < 0.01). The yield and dry matter digestibility of forage in fertilized pastures were significantly higher than those in no fertilized pasture (P < 0.01). The values of crude protein (CP) and crude fat (EE) in forage from fertilized pastures were significantly increased (P < 0.01). The Mo contents in the blood and liver in the Pishan red sheep from fertilized pastures were greatly increased (P < 0.01). The Cu contents in the blood and liver in the Pishan red sheep from the fertilized pastures were greatly decreased (P < 0.01). The activities of serum superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) in group I, group II, and group III were extremely lower than those in group C (P < 0.01), and the contents of serum malondialdehyde (MDA) in group I, group II, and group III were greatly higher than those from group C (P < 0.01). In summary, the application of nano-K₂MoO₄ improved the nutritive values and the yield of forage, but overuse will remarkably reduce the Cu contents of blood and greatly interfere with the Cu metabolism, leading to the Cu deficiency and low antioxidant capacity in grazing the ruminants.

Metabolomic Analysis Reveals the Adaptation in the P. przewalskii to Se-Deprived Environment

The Procapra przewalskii inhabits in a selenium (Se)-deprived environment in long-term, but they have no pathological manifestations due to the Se deprivation. This study aimed to reveal the underlying adaptation induced by Se deprivation. In the analysis, a total of 93 significantly changed metabolites were identified in positive and negative ion modes, including 46 upregulated and 47 downregulated compounds in the Se-deprived group. The differential metabolites were annotated as the major molecules in bile acid biosynthesis, biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids, and pyrimidine metabolism, respectively. This study systematically analyzed the serum metabolomics characteristics of P. przewalskii under Se-deprived conditions for the first time, providing a basis for further understanding of the metabolic mechanism of P. przewalskii in the Se-deprived environment.

Effects of Se-Enriched Malt on the Immune and Antioxidant Function in the Se-Deprived Reclamation Merino Sheep in Southern Xinjiang

We have found that the Reclamation merino sheep in Southern Xinjiang, China, showed emaciation, stiff limbs, instability, and sudden death, which is related to the impairment of immune function and antioxidant capacity caused by selenium (Se) deficiency. The experiments were to study the effects of Se-enriched malt on the immune and antioxidant function in Se-deprived Reclamation merino sheep in Southern Xinjiang, China. The samples of soil and forage had been collected from tested pastures, and animal tissues were also collected in tested animals. The mineral content of soil, forage, and animal tissues was measured in the collected samples. Hematological indexes and biochemical values were also examined. The findings showed that the Se contents were extremely lower in affected soil and forage than those from healthy soil and forage (P < 0.01). The Se contents in affected blood and wool were also extremely lower than those from healthy blood and wool (P < 0.01). The values in glutathione peroxidase and total antioxidant capacity in affected serum samples were also extremely lower than those from healthy serum samples, and levels of malondialdehyde, total nitric oxide synthase, and lipid peroxide were extremely higher in affected serum samples than those from healthy serum samples (P < 0.01). Meanwhile, the values of hemoglobin, packed cell volume, and platelet count from affected blood were extremely lower than those from healthy blood (P < 0.01). The levels of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-2, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, immunoglobulin A, and immunoglobulin G in serum were extremely decreased in the affected Reclamation merino sheep (P < 0.01). The levels of IL-6 and immunoglobulin M in serum were extremely reduced in the affected Reclamation merino sheep compared to healthy animals (P < 0.01). The animals in affected pastures were orally treated with Se-enriched malt, and the Se contents in blood were extremely increased (P < 0.01). The immune function and antioxidant indicator returned to within the healthy range. Consequently, our findings were indicated that the disorder of the Reclamation merino sheep was mainly caused by the Se deficiency in soil and forage. The Se-enriched malt could not only markedly increase the Se content in blood but also much improve the immune function and the antioxidant capacity in the Se-deprived Reclamation merino sheep.

Effects of Nano-copper Oxide on Antioxidant Function of Copper-Deficient Kazakh Sheep

Kazakh sheep are vital to the production system of the Barkol prairie. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of nano-copper oxide (Nano-Cu₂O) on the antioxidant system of Cu-deficient Kazakh sheep in the Barkol prairie in Xinjiang, China. We analyzed mineral contents in soil, forage, and animal tissues. Blood parameters were also measured at the same time. The results showed that compared with healthy grassland, the Cu content in the soil and forage in Cu-deficient pastures was significantly lower than that in healthy grassland (P < 0.01). The Cu content in the blood, wool, and liver of Cu-deficient Kazakh sheep was significantly lower than that of healthy animals (P < 0.01). After Kazakh sheep were supplemented with Nano-Cu₂O or CuSO₄, the blood Cu concentration increased significantly (P < 0.01). From the 5th day, the Cu content of the Nano-Cu₂O group was significantly higher than that of the CuSO₄ group. The levels of hemoglobin (Hb), erythrocyte count (RBC), and packed cell volume (PCV) in the two experimental groups were significantly higher than those in Cu-deficient Kazakh sheep (P < 0.01). Compared with Cu-deficient Kazakh sheep, the serum ceruloplasmin (Cp) level of the two experimental groups increased significantly (P < 0.01), while the serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), alkaline phosphatase (AKP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) decreased significantly (P < 0.01). Compared with Cu-deficient Kazakh sheep, the activities of serum superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), catalase (CAT), and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) in Nano-Cu₂O and CuSO₄ groups increased significantly (P < 0.01), while the level of serum malondialdehyde (MDA) decreased significantly (P < 0.01). Therefore, Nano-Cu₂O could not only significantly increase the Cu content in the blood of Cu-deficient Kazakh sheep, but also greatly improve the antioxidant capacity.

Effects of Foliar Application of Nano-molybdenum Fertilizer on Copper Metabolism of Grazing Chinese Merino Sheep (Junken Type) on Natural Grasslands Under Copper and Cadmium Stress

In recent decades, the groundwater contaminated by mineral development and metal smelting has seriously polluted natural grasslands, resulting in heavy metal residues in soils and forages exceeding the standard, especially copper (Cu) and cadmium (Cd). After animals intake contaminated forages, heavy metals may accumulate in animal tissues and threaten human health through the food chain. Previous studies found that molybdenum (Mo) fertilizer from ammonium molybdate or potassium molybdate could alleviate the decrease of antioxidant capacity caused by heavy metal poisoning, but the application of nano-Mo fertilizer in sheep is still lacking. To investigate the effects of nano-Mo fertilizer on Cu metabolism of grazing Chinese Merino sheep (Junken Type) on natural pastures under Cu and Cd stress, fertilizing experiment was carried out in the Bayanbulak Grassland in the northwest of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China. A total of 24 hm² fenced grassland contaminated by heavy metals was randomly divided into four groups (3 replications/group and 2 hm²/replication). The experimental groups were applied 0 g Mo, 100 g Mo, 200 g Mo, and 300 g Mo per hectare for the control group, group I, group II, and group III, respectively, through foliar spraying fertilization. A total of 72 Chinese Merino sheep (1 year old, 43.8 ± 2.3 kg) grazing on polluted natural grasslands, with 18 sheep per group, were randomly assigned to the experimental pastures for 30 days. The results showed that the Mo content in soil in group II and group III nwas higher than that in the control group (P < 0.05); the Cd content in soil in group II and group III was lower than that in the control group (P < 0.05), and the Cu content in soil in fertilized pastures was lower than that in the control group (P < 0.05). The Mo content in herbage in fertilized pastures was higher than that in the control group (P < 0.05), and the content of Cu in herbage in fertilized pastures was lower than that in the control group (P < 0.05). The contents of iron (Fe) and Mo in blood and liver of grazing animals from fertilized pastures were higher than that in the control group (P < 0.05). The Cd content in blood of grazing animals in group II and group III was lower than that in the control group (P < 0.05). The Cu content in blood and liver of grazing animals in fertilized pastures was lower than that in the control group (P < 0.05). The content of selenium (Se) in blood of grazing animals in group II and group III was higher than that in the control group (P < 0.05). The levels of blood including hemoglobin (Hb), erythrocyte count (RBC), and packed cell volume (PCV) in group II and group III were higher than that in the control group (P < 0.05). The white blood cell (RBC) count in group II and group III was lower than that in the control group (P < 0.05). The activities of serum superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), catalase (CAT), and ceruloplasmin (Cp) in group II and group III were higher than that in the control group (P < 0.05). The content of malondialdehyde (MDA) in group II and group III was lower than that in the control group (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the application of nano-Mo fertilizer on Cu- and Cd-contaminated grasslands changed the contents of mineral elements in soil, forage, and blood of grazing sheep, improved the antioxidant capacity, affected the Cu metabolism of grazing Chinese Merino sheep caused by Cu and Cd pollutions, and alleviated the toxic damage of heavy metal pollutions.

The Effects of Oral Administration of Molybdenum Fertilizers on Immune Function of Nanjiang Brown Goat Grazing on Natural Pastures Contaminated by Mixed Heavy Metal

Mineral development and metal smelting seriously polluted the surrounding groundwater and soil, threatening human health through the food chain. To investigate the effects of different sources of molybdenum (Mo) fertilizers on immune function of Nanjiang brown goats grazing on natural pastures under compound pollutions, fertilizing experiment was carried out in Liangshan Yi Nationality Prefecture of the Western Sichuan Plateau, China. Eighteen square hectometers of polluted meadows were fenced and were randomly divided into three groups (3 replications/group and 2 hm²/replication). A total of 54 healthy Nanjiang brown goats with an average BW of 31.6 ± 1.5 kg (1 year old) were used to this 30-day test (18 goats per group). The goats from CON group, AM group, and PM group were orally supplemented with deionized water, 15 mg Mo/BW·d (ammonium molybdate tetrahydrate), and 15 mg Mo/BW·d (potassium molybdate), respectively. Compared to CON group, the serum Fe content of grazing animals from AM group and PM group was 10.05% and 3.45% higher (P < 0.05), and the serum Cu content of grazing animals from AM group and PM group was 69.05% and 67.86% lower, respectively (P < 0.05). Mo fertilization significantly increased the levels of blood Hb, RBC, and PCV, and the activities of serum SOD, GSH-Px, CAT, and Cp of grazing goats (P < 0.05), and also extremely decreased the MDA content of experimental goats fed Mo compared to the control goats (P < 0.05). Compared to CON group, the activities of serum IgG, IgA, IgM, IL-2, and TNF-α of grazing animals from AM group and PM group were significantly increased (P < 0.05), and the levels of serum IL-6 and IL-1β of grazing goats from AM group and PM group were extremely decreased (P < 0.05). In summary, oral Mo fertilizers can alter the contents of serum mineral elements, reduce oxidative stress, improve immune function, and relieve the toxic damage of goats grazing on contaminated natural grasslands.

Molybdenum Fertilization Improved Antioxidant Capacity of Grazing Nanjiang Brown Goat on Copper-Contaminated Pasture

Copper (Cu) is an essential trace element, but excessive Cu intake can induce poor performance and Cu poisoning and result in various health problems. Cu and molybdenum (Mo) antagonize each other in vivo. Therefore, Mo can reduce the absorption and utilization of Cu. The aims of this study were to investigate the impacts of Mo fertilization on antioxidant capacity of grazing Nanjiang brown goat on Cu-polluted meadow and explore the control methods of Cu pollution in natural pasture. Fertilization and grazing experiments were carried out in Liangshan Yi Nationality Prefecture of the Western Sichuan Plateau, Sichuan Province, Southwest China. Cu-polluted meadows of 12 hm² were fenced, and randomly divided into two groups (3 replications/group, 2 hm²/replication), control group and treatment group, fed with basic diets supplemented with 0 and 3 kg Mo/hm² [ammonium molybdate tetrahydrate, (NH₄)₆Mo₇O₂₄·4H₂O], respectively. In the current study, 36 healthy Nanjiang brown goats (1 year old, 32.8 ± 1.1 kg) were randomly divided into two groups (3 replications/group, 6 goats/replication) and assigned to the experimental pastures. The grazing experiment lasted for 60 days. The results showed that the concentration of Mo in soil in treatment group was 96.28 mg/kg, far exceeding the normal levels. At days 30 and 60, the levels of Hb, RBC, and PCV in blood in treatment group and the activities of serum SOD, GSH-Px, T-AOC, CAT, and Cp were higher than those in control group (P < 0.01). The MDA content in treatment group was lower than that in control group (P < 0.01). The contents of Cu in blood and liver in treatment goats were lower than those in control animals (P < 0.01). The contents of Zn and Mo in blood and liver in treatment goats were higher than those in control animals (P < 0.01). The Mn content in liver in treatment group was higher than that in control animals (P < 0.01). These results indicated that fertilization of (NH₄)₆Mo₇O₂₄ not only markedly influenced the mineral contents in blood and liver, but also extremely improved antioxidant capacity of grazing Nanjiang brown goat from fertilized pastures and relieved the damage caused by Cu pollution.

The Combinations of Sulfur and Molybdenum Fertilization Improved Antioxidant Capacity in Grazing Nanjiang Brown Goat

To assess the impacts of sulfur (S) and molybdenum (Mo) fertilization on antioxidant capacity of grazing Nanjiang brown goat in copper (Cu)-polluted meadow, and explore the control methods of Cu pollution in natural pasture, fertilizer treatments and grazing experiments were carried out in Garzê Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of the Western Sichuan Plateau, Sichuan Province, Southwest China. 24 hm² Cu-polluted meadows were fenced and randomly divided into four groups (3 replications/group, 2 hm²/replication): (1) control group, no fertilizer; (2) treatment groups, applied 1 kg Mo+40 kg S, 2 kg Mo+80 kg S, and 3 kg Mo+120 kg S per hectare for group I, group II, and group III, respectively. Seventy-two healthy Nanjiang brown goats (1 year old, 30.9 ± 1.1 kg) were randomly divided into 4 groups (3 replications/group, 6 goats/replication) and assigned to the tested pastures. The grazing experiment lasted for 60 days. The results showed that the contents of N, S, Mn, Zn, and Mo in herbage in fertilized pastures were higher than those in control group (P < 0.01). The contents of Cu and Se in herbage in fertilized pastures were lower than those in control group (P < 0.01). There were no differences among the fertilized pastures (P > 0.05). The contents of Mn, Zn, Mo, and S in serum and liver in the treatment goats were higher than those in control animals (P < 0.01). The contents of Cu and Se in serum and liver in the treatment goats were lower than those in control animals (P < 0.01). There was no difference in Fe and Co contents in herbage, serum, and liver among the four groups (P > 0.05). The levels of Hb, RBC, and PCV in blood in the treatment goats and the activities of SOD, GSH-Px, T-AOC, CAT, and Cp in serum were higher than those in control goats (P < 0.01). The contents of MDA in the treatment goats were lower than those in control animals (P < 0.01). The contents of serum Cu and Mo, and liver Cu in group III were lower than those in group I and group II (P < 0.01). Taken together, the combinations of S and Mo fertilization did not influence the mineral contents in herbage, serum, and liver, but reduced the toxicity of Cu in Cu-polluted grassland and improved antioxidant capacity in grazing Nanjiang brown goat from fertilized pastures.

The combinations of sulfur and molybdenum fertilizations improved antioxidant capacity of grazing Guizhou semi-fine wool sheep under copper and cadmium stress

Mineral development and metal smelting are the main sources of heavy metal pollution, and copper (Cu) and cadmium (Cd) are the most serious mineral elements in heavy metal pollution. Food chain is the main channel for Cu and Cd to enter human body. Excessive accumulation of Cu and Cd can lead to a variety of diseases and threaten human health. Therefore, it is urgent to repair Cu and Cd-contaminated soil. Previous several studies found that sulfur (S) and molybdenum (Mo) had the effect of alleviating the decrease of antioxidant capacity caused by heavy metal poisoning. To investigate the co-combinations of S and Mo fertilizations on antioxidant capacity of grazing Guizhou semi-fine wool sheep in Cu and Cd-contaminated meadow, and explore the control methods of co-pollutions of Cu and Cd in natural pastures, fertilizing and grazing experiments were carried out in the Wumeng Prairie in the northwest of Guizhou Province, Southwest China. 24 hm² Cu and Cd-polluted meadows were fenced, and were randomly divided into four groups with 3 replications per group and 2 hm² per replication. The tested groups included the control group (no fertilizer) and the three treatment groups, applied 40 kg S + 1 kg Mo, 80 kg S + 2 kg Mo, and 120 kg S + 3 kg Mo per hectare for group I, group II, and group III, respectively. 72 healthy Guizhou semi-fine wool sheep (one year old, 33.9 ± 1.2 kg) were randomly assigned to the tested pastures with 18 sheep per group. The grazing experiment lasted for 60 days. The results showed that the contents of Mn, Zn, Mo, and S in herbage in fertilized pastures were higher than that in the control group (P < 0.05). The content of Cu in herbage in fertilized pastures was lower than that in the control group (P < 0.05). The contents of Mn, Zn, Mo, and S in serum of grazing Guizhou semi-fine wool sheep were higher than that in the control group (P < 0.05). The content of Cu in serum of grazing Guizhou semi-fine wool sheep was lower than that in the control group (P < 0.05). The levels of blood Hb, RBC, and PCV, and the activities of serum SOD, GSH-Px, T-AOC, CAT, and Cp in group Ⅲ were higher than that in the control group, group Ⅰ, and group Ⅱ (P < 0.05). The MDA content of sheep in group Ⅲ was lower than that in the other treatment sheep (P < 0.05). In summary, the combinations of S and Mo fertilizers influenced the mineral contents in herbage and serum of grazing Guizhou semi-fine wool sheep. The combinations of 120 kg S + 3 kg Mo fertilizer reduced the toxicity and improved antioxidant capacity of grazing Guizhou semi-fine wool sheep in Cu and Cd-polluted grasslands.

Studies on Antioxidant Capacity in Selenium-Deprived the Choko Yak in the Shouqu Prairie

The fencing device on pasture has seriously restricted the foraging range in grazing animals. As a result, the incidence of selenium (Se) deficiency is rising in grazing Choko yaks in the Shouqu prairie in Northwest China. To study the effect of Se deprivation on antioxidant capacity in the Choko yaks, the mineral contents in soil, forage, blood, and liver have been analyzed. The parameters of physiology and biochemistry in animal were also measured. The tested results showed that Se contents in soil and forage from tested pastures were very greatly lower than those in the control ranges (P < 0.01), and there were no extreme differences in other elements. Se contents in blood and the liver in tested animals were very extremely lower than those in the control yaks (P < 0.01). Levels of hemoglobin (Hb), erythrocyte (RBC), and hematocrit (HCT) were very extremely less than those in the control group (P < 0.01). Activities of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) in blood from the tested yaks were very much lower than those in the control animals (P < 0.01). Contents of malondialdehyde (MDA) in tested yaks were extremely higher than those in the control animals (P < 0.01). Therefore, it is suggested that Se-deficient forage in natural habitat not only influenced mineral contents in the blood and the liver but also causes serious harm to antioxidant function in the Choko yaks.

Effects of Nano-copper on Antioxidant Function in Copper-Deprived Guizhou Black Goats

Guizhou black goats are essential to the production system in the Wumeng prairie in the Western China. This study aimed to determine the influence of nano-copper on antioxidant system in copper-deprived Guizhou black goats. We analyzed mineral contents in soil, forage, and goats' tissues. Blood parameters were also determined. The results showed that copper concentrations in soil and forage were significantly lower, and the iron content was significantly higher in affected compared with healthy area (P < 0.01). Copper concentrations in animal tissues (blood, liver, and hair) were significantly lower and iron content was significantly higher in affected compared with healthy goats (P < 0.01). After supplementation of nano-copper or copper sulfate, copper concentration in blood was significantly increased and iron content was significantly lower (P < 0.01). Compared with nano-copper group, the effect of copper sulfate was slower. Hemoglobin levels, erythrocyte count, and packed cell volume from nano-copper and copper sulfate groups were significantly higher than those in copper-deprived goats (P < 0.01). Compared with the copper-deprived Guizhou black goats, serum ceruloplasmin levels in nano-copper and copper sulfate groups were significantly increased, while serum lactate dehydrogenase, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and creatinine were significantly decreased (P < 0.01). Compared with the copper-deprived animals, serum superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, and total antioxidant capacity in nano-copper and copper sulfate groups were significantly higher, while serum malondialdehyde content was significantly lower (P < 0.01). The effect of copper sulfate group was significantly lower than that in nano-copper group (P < 0.01). Consequently, nano-copper could not only markedly increase the copper content in blood in copper-deprived Guizhou black goats but also much improves the antioxidant capacity.

Responses of Chinese Merino Sheep (Junken Type) on Copper-Deprived Natural Pasture

To research responses of Chinese Merino Sheep (Junken type) to copper-deprived natural pasture, we analyzed mineral contents in soil, forage, and sheep tissues. Physiological and biochemical parameters were also determined. Results showed that copper concentrations in soil and forage from affected pastures were significantly lower than those in healthy ranges (P < 0.01). Copper contents in animal tissues (blood, liver, and wool) from affected Chinese Merino Sheep were also significantly lower than those in healthy sheep (P < 0.01). Hemoglobin levels, packed cell volume, mean corpuscular volume, and mean corpuscular hemoglobin from affected Chinese Merino Sheep were significantly lower than those in healthy animals (P < 0.01). Serum ceruloplasmin was significantly lower in affected Chinese Merino Sheep than that in healthy animals, while activities of lactate dehydrogenase, alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alanine aminotransferase in serum were significantly higher in affected compared with healthy animals (P < 0.01). The levels of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, total antioxidant capacity, and catalase in serum were significantly lower, and the malondialdehyde content was significantly higher in affected compared with healthy sheep (P < 0.01). The levels of interleukin-2, interleukin 6, interleukin-1β, immunoglobulin A, immunoglobulin M, and immunoglobulin G in copper-deprived sheep were significantly lower than those in healthy animals (P < 0.01). Copper deprivation in forage not only influenced the mineral content in blood but also severely disrupted blood parameters (physiology, biochemistry, immunity, and antioxidant) in Chinese Merino Sheep.

Effects of Nano-Zinc on Immune Function in Qianbei-Pockmarked Goats

Qianbei-pockmarked goats are vital to the production system of western China. This study aimed to determine the influence of nano-zinc on immune function in zinc-deprived goats. We analyzed the mineral concentrations in soil, forage, and animal tissue. Blood parameters and immune indexes were also determined. Results showed that the zinc concentrations in soil and forage from affected area were significantly lower than those in control area (P < 0.01). Zinc contents in tissues (blood and hair) from affected Qianbei-pockmarked goats were also significantly lower than those in healthy animals (P < 0.01). Levels of hemoglobin, erythrocyte count, and packed cell volume from affected animals were markedly lower than those in healthy animals (P < 0.01). Levels of lactate dehydrogenase, alkaline phosphatase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxide, catalase, and total antioxidant capacity in serum in affected animals were significantly lower, and aspartate aminotransferase, alanine transaminase, malondialdehyde in serum were significantly higher than those in healthy goats (P < 0.01). The contents of immunoglobulin A, immunoglobulin M, immunoglobulin G, interleukin-2, interleukin 6, and interleukin-1β from affected animals were significantly lower than those in healthy animals (P < 0.01). The affected Qianbei-pockmarked goats were treated orally with nano-zinc, the concentration of zinc in blood significantly increased, and serum immune indexes greatly returned to that within the healthy range. It was concluded that nano-zinc could not only markedly increase the zinc content in blood of zinc-deprived goats but also much improve the immune function.

Responses of Przewalski's Gazelle (Procapra przewalskii) to Zinc Nutrition in Physical Habitat

To study responses of Procapra przewalskii to zinc (Zn) nutrition in physical habitat, we analyzed the content of mineral elements in soil, forage, and animal tissues. Physiological and biochemical indexes were also determined. The results showed that Zn contents in the soil and forage from affected pasture were significantly lower (P < 0.01) than those in unaffected areas. Zn concentrations in the blood, liver, and hair from affected P. przewalskii were also significantly lower (P < 0.01) than those in healthy animals. The levels of hemoglobin, erythrocyte count, and packed cell volume from affected P. przewalskii were significantly lower (P < 0.01) than those in healthy animals. Serum aspartate aminotransferase and alanine transaminase activities were significantly lower (P < 0.01) in affected P. przewalskii than in healthy animals, while serum lactate dehydrogenase and alkaline phosphatase levels were significantly higher (P < 0.01) in affected compared with healthy animals. The activities of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase in serum were significantly lower and the malondialdehyde content was significantly higher (all P < 0.01) in affected compared with healthy animals. Affected P. przewalskii were treated orally with ZnSO₄. The Zn content in the blood increased gradually and serum antioxidant indexes gradually returned to within the healthy range. Zn deprivation in forage thus not only influenced the blood mineral content but also severely disrupted blood parameters and antioxidant function in P. przewalskii.